September 11 2010

Ashburton District Tourism is co-ordinating a relief initiative targeting victims in the Canterbury district who are homeless and traumatised after Saturday's earthquake.

"It's an incredibly stressful time for those affected, and as a neighbouring region we can offer some support, with a huge thanks to all of our district's operators that are offering their services.

"We all wanted to assist in something, and some nights away from the emotion of the destruction may be just what some people really need right now to recharge and get some sleep for there family, prior to addressing the reality of the months ahead."

Conditions apply to all of the following offers and the offers only apply to people coming through a clear process managed by Ashburton District Tourism and Christchurch Red Cross to ensure that the offers get to those who need it the most.

Red Cross in Christchurch along with other relief organisations will assist in identifying those who are in greatest need of some time out from their personal circumstances.

These organisations will provide Ashburton District Tourism with the details of these people and Ashburton District Tourism will facilitate placing people into the generous accommodation offers.